Today is going to be a very busy, but fun day! I worked yesterday on my new project and got much of the base things done on it and today is the “fun” part of letting my brushes fly and make it into something special. I hope to have things close to being ‘finished’ by the end of the day – at least to a certain point.

Our ‘work day’ was cut a bit short yesterday because we went to Keith’s moms for an incredible lobster dinner. Keith’s sweet auntie Dorothy is visiting for a couple of weeks and it was a wonderful ‘excuse’ to indulge and have a great dinner and visit. Keith’s mom makes the BEST potato salad and besides feasting on lobster, we had that as well. It was an awesome treat and I was thrilled when I was handed an extra lobster “to go” for today, as well as some of the left over salad. I will certainly be eating good this weekend!

After dinner we had a nice long visit and stayed there late. It was a very pleasant day and a welcome diversion from the tons of snow we have been having. I can’t even say that I mind that though, as it is very pretty and we are fortunate enough not to have the bitter cold that has been plaguing other areas. For me, it is enjoyable to have all kinds of weather, as I will also find something to keep me busy.

I also wanted to show you a gift that I received from my very dear friend Leldon earlier this week. Leldon and I have been friends for over 15 years now, and I hope to see him in Saratoga Springs this March. It has been many years since I have seen him although we are always talking and keeping up with each other. Leldon also helps Keith and I by proofreading our woodworking patterns for us. It is great to have another set of eyes look over the designs. I have mentioned him many times before and he is a wonderful woodworker and designer in his own rite.

Anyway, earlier this week I received this BEAUTIFUL end grain cutting board from Leldon!

It is absolutely STUNNING in person and I sorely needed one. The wood just looks beautiful and it is by far the nicest cutting board that I ever had!

Not only that . . . Leldon also sent a smaller yet equally beautiful cutting board for Keith’s mom! He know how much she means to us and he wanted to send her a little something for Christmas. Isn’t that just so kind of him??

Her board is made of hickory and walnut and is the perfect size for her.

I am so fortunate to have such wonderful people in my life. Of course, Keith’s mom was thrilled with the board. She will enjoy using it very much, I think!

I just love my creative friends and family. Even though life can be hard sometimes, it is wonderful to be surrounded by so many kind, talented and caring people. Focusing on the good really makes our days brighter and happier.

Here is what is on my table for me to work on today:

You can probably figure out by now that it has something to do with “Easter.” It is going to be a lot of fun to play with it and I can’t wait to see how it comes out.

6 comments so far

Thanks for your journal entry for today. I’m glad you got to visit and spend a restful evening dining on the fine foods of your area. Sheila, although you get lots of snow, yours is dry. In the southern USA ours is wet, icy and just a d**n mess. Traffic is snarled because of the hills.Keith, that basket is exquisite! Anyone obtaining one will certainly want to show it off and brag about how they came to have such finery. Thanks y’all

Hi, Russell:Yes – I don’t express my glee as much on the snow because I know it is hard on others. Me – I can stay in for a month and be happy creating. I know in the south that people don’t know how to deal with it and I sympathize with them. It gets messy here too and we have far more hills here than when I lived in Chicago. That makes it much more dangerous. I don’t drive my car from November until the spring thaw in April or so. I hope you remain safe.

Thank you for the nice comments on Keith’s basket. One of my favorites of his. Would make a nice gift stuffed with chocolates or even some flowers. :)